The American Red Cross kicks off its annual Holiday Mail for Heroes program today and invites Americans to show their gratitude and best wishes for those who serve our country, vets and their families by sending holiday cards. Starting September 30 and going through December 6, Americans can create and send cards to service members, veterans and their families who will receive cards across the country and around the world.

“Everyone gets busy, especially around the holidays, so just a few moments can mean a lot,” said Greg Waite, CEO, American Red Cross of Southeast TN. “While it may not seem like much, a hand-written note to a service member spending time away from his or her family makes a word of difference.” The Red Cross invites the public to send messages of thanks and holiday cheer by mailing them to:

Holiday Mail for Heroes

P.O. Box 5456

Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

Red Cross volunteers across the United States and on military installations overseas sort and deliver the cards throughout the holiday season. The Red Cross has received and distributed more than 6.5 million cards for members of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans and their families since the program began in 2006. To ensure that cards are delivered in time for the holidays, they must be postmarked no later than December 6. Individuals are asked to refrain from sending letters, monetary donations or any other kinds of inserts with the cards. Please also refrain from using glitter. More information and card requirements can be found at redcross.org/holidaymail.

The Red Cross also invites the public to share photos and videos of their card signing efforts or their holiday greeting for troops by using the hashtag #HolidayMail on their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Vine accounts. The Red Cross will use the material on its social sites throughout the holiday season. The public also can connect with fellow card senders through Facebook.com/redcross and Twitter.com/redcross.